The Egyptian archaeological mission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities has uncovered a collection of rock-cut tombs dating back to the Old Kingdom. The discovery, which includes burial shafts and chambers, was made during the current excavation season at the Qubbet el-Hawa site in Aswan.
Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, praised the exceptional efforts of archaeological missions across Egypt. He noted that recent discoveries by Egyptian teams have significantly enriched the field of archaeology and enhanced the global appeal of Egypt’s cultural tourism. The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing full technical and logistical support to missions as they continue to reveal the secrets of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Historical Significance and Re-use
Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, highlighted the scientific importance of the find.
"The discovery enhances our understanding of the Qubbet el-Hawa site. These tombs, originally from the Old Kingdom, were repurposed during the First Intermediate Period and the Middle Kingdom, underscoring the site's strategic importance across different eras," El-Leithy stated.
He added that the mission will now focus on the comprehensive documentation and registration of the findings.
Key Artifacts Uncovered
Mr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector, detailed the specific finds within the burial chambers:
Pottery: Approximately 160 ceramic vessels of various shapes and sizes were discovered. Most are in an excellent state of preservation and bear Hieratic inscriptions, indicating they were used for storing liquids and grains.
Funerary Goods: In the external courtyards, the team recovered a collection of jewelry and daily-life objects from the Middle Kingdom, including:
Bronze mirrors and alabaster kohl containers.
Beaded necklaces of diverse colors and shapes.
A variety of symbolic amulets.
About Qubbet el-Hawa
Qubbet el-Hawa is a renowned archaeological site containing a necropolis that spans several millennia, featuring elite tombs dating from the beginning of the Old Kingdom through to the Greco-Roman period. The Egyptian mission continues its work on-site, with expectations of further discoveries.
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